Rs 2-crore project to pave, secure Kali Bein banks begins in Sultanpur Lodhi

Rajya Sabha member Balbir Singh Seechewal launched the long-pending Rs 2-crore project to pave and secure the banks of the holy Kali Bein from Talwandi Chaudhrian bridge to Gurdwara Sri Ber Sahib in Sultanpur Lodhi.

The project, delayed for years due to illegal encroachments and legal hurdles, will now see the entire stretch concretised with tiles and fitted with iron grills to prevent further violations and ensure the safety of devotees.

According to Drainage Department officials, the work will be carried out in two phases—the first covering 1,500 feet, followed by another 900 feet. Officials recalled that Seechewal had initially started stone-pitching along the Bein in 2003, but a small portion remained incomplete for various reasons. Once the project is finished, both sides of the Bein—from Gurdwara Ber Sahib to Sant Ghat—will feature paved embankments and protective railings.

It was noted that Sultanpur Lodhi has been declared a Smart City by the Central Government, with Rs 46 crore sanctioned for the beautification of the holy Kali Bein. Sajjan Singh Cheema, Chairman of the Kapurthala Improvement Trust and constituency in-charge, was also present at the launch event.

Earlier in the day, Seechewal reviewed preparations for the upcoming Prakash Purab along with ADC Navneet Kaur Bal, SDM Alka Kalia and other officials. He directed urgent repair of city roads, installation of streetlights and enhanced enforcement to curb theft incidents. Expressing concern over non-functional public toilets, he urged authorities to take immediate action, noting the expected influx of thousands of devotees.

Officials from the drainage, electricity and sewerage departments also attended the review meeting.